TELL PETER

MATTHEW 9:1-8

Bobservations:

May 6, 2012

Have you noticed the numbers of churches that are springing up everywhere? I hope so, because we are one of them. Hundreds of churches like this one are sprouting up all over. There is a spiritual hunger in the land, and among the people. The mainline churches are shrinking, while nondenominational churches continue to multiply. We are being blessed with the opportunity to welcome new believers into our midst as new commitments to Christ are made at the Rock The Lakes Festival. Well be given the opportunity to not only teach new Believers, but also to make Disciples of them. The best example is Jesus Himself. From His call to Andrew and Peter from mending their fishing nets, to the call of Matthew the taxman, Jesus made them followers, then Believers and Disciples. New Believers are like babes, in many ways. They need attention, nurturing, encouragement, and sometimes correction in their old ways of thinking. What they need are not discipleship programs, but mature Christians to befriend and mentor them. They need a person, not a thing. After 9 months of preparation for a newborns birth, we do not leave them to fend for themselves once they arrive. We take care of them because they have so many needs. A new Believer is that baby Christian with many needs. The Apostles walked with Jesus because He was mentoring them, preparing them for the day when they would be released and commissioned to teach all nations, and disciple them as Jesus had discipled them. Peace be unto you; as my Father hath sent me, even so send I you. John 20:21 The Great Commission is to spread the Good News to all nations, and teaching them to do the things Jesus taught. Deny self. Teach Him; Live Him; be an example of His love. To lead someone, you only need to be one step ahead of them on the same path.